Smartbar

Such a vibe every time I’ve been.
It wasn’t too packed and there is a guarantee that you’ll run into a range of people.
CASH ONLY cover at the door for DJs – typically like $20/ person.
Drinks range but the cheapest is a fireball priced at $8.

I hadn’t been to Smartbar in twenty years. I arrived at 11:30pm on a Saturday, and the place was empty. By 12:30am, it was filling up. When I left at 1am, there was an entry line wrapped around the door! The message? Go earlier if you don’t want to stand in line! Sweet bartender. Still cool as ever!

I have never felt the need to leave a negative review before, but this is not a safe space for women AT ALL. My friend had one beer and was surrounded and harassed by security where she was forcefully taken out of the bar. While I understand cutting someone off when it appears that they have had too much to drink, they charge customers for water, and security did not let my friend grab her coat which had all of her personal belongings. There is absolutely no justification for this volatile and unnecessary conduct. How can you justify surrounding a young woman, denying them the right to grab their coat (that has their phone, keys, wallet), and kicking them out? This behavior is completely unacceptable for anyone in a similar situation, and I hope that upper management can reevaluate how these matters are handled in the future.

Had lots of fun in the event downstairs, I also was in the event earlier at Metro (where Botch was performing) and really loved the after-party after that concert. Guys complaining that this music is too loud don’t know anything about house music in Chicagoland. Service was excellent, and the music was out of this world. Can’t recommend anything other than a double-check on the soap dispensers at the bathrooms. They sometimes run out (not today, but sometimes), but otherwise, this place is perfect.

I recently visited Smartbar and was thoroughly impressed by the energetic atmosphere and great music. The DJs played amazing underground hits. The club’s modern and stylish decor, ample seating areas, and great bar staff contributed to the overall fantastic experience. I would definitely recommend Smartbar to anyone looking for a fun and exciting night out.